Wynton Kelly

WYNTON KELLY (p), PAUL CHAMBERS (b) & JIMMY COBB (d).

Chicago, August 4, 1968

The trio led by pianist Wynton Kelly, which also included bassist Paul Chambers and drummer Jimmy Cobb, first functioned as the rhythm section of Miles Davis' Quintet in 1958. In 1963, they left Davis' band and spent time as Wes Montgomery's backup group; the unit stayed together until Chambers' death on Jan. 4, 1969, a run of over ten years (Kelly would pass away two years later). Their final studio session, released for the first time domestically by Delmark in 1988, is partly hindered by the inclusion of some unsuitable pop songs (including "Say a Little Prayer for Me," "Watch What Happens," "Light My Fire" and "Yesterday"), but typically, the musicians do their best to swing the tunes. Best tunes on the historic set are "Kelly's Blues" and "Castilian Waltz"... ~ Scott Yanow

“Talk to me about rhythm sections. Start with whatever era you wish and recite the accomplishments of each unit. Compare them against their peers. Sooner or later you will get to Kelly, Chambers and Cobb. Go no further. Once you have checked out these three you can stop. They are the last word.
- Bob Porter, WBGO Network

Tracks: 1. When Love Slips Away, 2. Castilian Waltz (Take 12), 3. Say A Little Prayer For Me, 4. Kelly’s Blues, 5. Watch What Happens, 6. House Of Cards, 7. Light My Fire, 8. Castilian Waltz (Take 1).9. Yesterday